WHAT IN THE WORLD

WHO'S THE VACCINE EXPERT?

NEW ZEALAND

Two children have been put into government care after their parents opposed them receiving measles vaccinations. A hearing on the topic saw a doctor and immunisation expert share a rebuttal to the mother's claim the vaccine contains mercury and carries the risk of anaphylactic shock. Judge Anthony Mahon ruled against the mother, citing that her internet research did not carry the same credibility as expert testimony.—Stuff.co.nz

THOSE WHO STAY, THOSE WHO GO

AUSTRALIA

The Australian government has been criticised after it was discovered 15,000 visas had been granted to foreign millionaires since the Covid-19 outbreak. Critics say it's a case of double standards, comparing those granted "business innovation and investment" visas aimed at stimulating the economy with the more than 100,000 students on visas forced to leave Australia recently.—SMH, SBS

TOBACCO GIANT CALLS FOR CIGARETTE BAN

UNITED KINGDOM

Jacek Olczak, CEO of tobacco company Philip Morris, has called on the UK government to ban cigarettes within a decade, likening the move to phasing out petrol cars. The company's Malboro brand would be banned under the scheme, with Philip Morris aiming to base half its revenue around non-smoking products.—The Guardian

VACANT JOB CRISIS

UNITED STATES

The United States is struggling to fill 10 million job openings with an estimated 8.7 million potential workers. Employers are using extra incentives such as signing bonuses, flexible working arrangements and even pet insurance to entice employees. Workplace analysts have cited uncertainty around Covid-19 and changes in the job market as contributing to the figures.—CNBC

ON THE RISE

Australians in Generation Y (ages 18—31) are more likely to celebrate Halloween than past generations.

64 per cent of Australians are involved in Halloween activities by providing treats, even if they don't believe in Halloween.

45 per cent of Australians in 2011 said they did not celebrate Halloween because it is an "American tradition". —McCrindle Research

According to retailers, Halloween's popularity is rising. Spotlight reported a 100 per cent increase in Halloween sales in 2016, including fake spiders and costumes. —SMH